Georgia moved a step closer to legalizing bake sales and fish fries with unanimous House passage of House Bill 101 by state Rep. Bubber Epps, R-Dry Branch.

Right now, unless it’s a part of a fair or festival, every place that serves food is supposed to get a food service permit.

Nonprofits “are getting caught in a state permit requirement that is meant for restaurants,” Epps said.

His bill expands the permit exemption to any event lasting fewer than 120 hours sponsored by a nonprofit or government entity.

Churches, PTAs, walk-a-thons and the like can start firing up the barbecue or warming the oven if the state Senate and the governor agree with House Bill 101 by the end of the annual legislative session, likely in April.

Angel investor tax credit reappears

A tax credit proposal appeared under the name of state Rep. Allen Peake, R-Macon, on the same day he proposed that Georgia start a venture capital fund.

Peake’s House Bill 272, filed on Monday, sets aside up to $10 million annually in tax credits for angel investors, people with big money who incubate fledgling companies at their earliest stages.

The tax credit already exists and is set to expire this December. This year’s bill would extend its life through 2015. House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams, D-Atlanta, is a co-signer. No committee hearing has yet been scheduled.

Additional judge for Bibb

A second judge would join the State Court of Bibb County bench this July if the Legislature approves House Bill 273 sponsored by state Rep. Nikki Randall, D-Macon.

All five of Bibb’s representatives, Republican and Democrat, have signed the bill. It’s lined up for quick House committee passage, because it is a bill that affects just one jurisdiction.

-- Maggie Lee